The visit demonstrates the UK's continued focus on the governance and sustainable development of the Overseas Territories. Her programme includes calls on the Leaders of Political Parties, Cabinet Ministers and Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs), as well as roundtable discussions on financial services and other issues.

The Minister will also see at first hand some of the environmental issues that affect the islands.

"I am very much looking forward to my first visit to an Overseas Territory since taking on responsibility for the UK's relations with the Overseas Territories earlier this year. I was delighted to hold a productive meeting with the Leader of Government Business Hon. Kurt Tibbetts just before the Overseas Territories Consultative Council in London on 4-5 December," the Minister stated ahead of her visit, adding:

"We continued useful talks at the Consultative Council itself, covering the constitutional review process and human rights, among other matters of mutual interest. I look forward during my visit to meeting Mr Tibbetts again, as well as a wide range of other people, and to take forward some of these issues."

On 13 December, as part of her visit, the Minister will attend a lunch at which she will speak on 'A Sustainable Future for the Overseas Territories'.